Role of Arms Control and Disarmament in Achieving Human Security

Abstract

The continued proliferation of all types of arms and militarization are a source of significant concern for human security. Sustained arms control processes that lead to eventual disarmament are the panacea for enhancing human security. This paper examines how arms control and disarmament can complement the measures to achieve human security by reducing the cost of security, tension, danger of war, and health hazards. Human insecurity increases due to security hurdles, mutual suspicion, and the role of the major powers. Human security can be increased by taking measures to control arms proliferation. The measures to reduce the risk of war would include establishing an integrated and comprehensive regional strategy, maintaining existing multilateral and regional standards, and creating a rules-based agreed framework for legitimate use of force.